Marcus Lattimore

Combine Results

Grade

Draft Analysis:

"He's the best back in the draft. When you're in a position of strength, you don't need to draft right away. They're investing in the future." -- Charley Casserly

5'11" Height

32 1/2" Arm Length

221LBS. Weight

9 7/8" Hands

Overview

South Carolina’s high school “Mr. Football” in 2009 (after racking up 1,898 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns his senior year) decided to stay in-state for his collegiate football career, and made his presence felt as a true freshman the following fall. The National Freshman of the Year by many media outlets also earned a spot on the Walter Camp All-American second team and first-team All-SEC accolades from league coaches after rushing for 1,197 yards and 17 scores his first year on campus. Only Heisman Trophy winner and NFL star back George Rogers ran for more yards in school history (in 1979 and 1980). Three games accounted for a large share of his season totals, though all were in wins over SEC East opponents that helped the Gamecocks win the division (182 yards against Georgia, 184 against Tennessee, 212 (with three TDs) at Florida).

Lattimore started his sophomore season strong, rushing for over 100 yards in four of the first six contests (including 246 yards and three scores against Navy). He suffered a season-ending torn left ACL against Mississippi State, however, which led to six missed games and a November surgery. SEC coaches voted him second-team all-conference after 2011 season despite his injury, recognizing his playmaking ability.

Lattimore came back strong in 2012, and was having an impressive season, until Oct. 27 in a game against Tennessee, during which he suffered a devastating knee injury that ultimately would end his college career. Lattimore tore all three ligaments in his right knee. After the season, Lattimore decided he was going to rehab and declare for the NFL draft.

Analysis

Strengths

Taller north-south runner who plays with good lean to plow for yards between the tackles. Possesses vision and quick feet for his size to slide into a rushing lane and the speed to get upfield once finding the hole. Quite effective on zone runs when used in that capacity. Has the wiggle to freeze and elude tacklers to space. Spins off piles inside and keeps his legs churning to pick up the extra yard. Gets into his routes fluidly out of the backfield and flashes the hand to adjust to poor throws. Good build for pass protection, and is willing to hustle and make contact to keep his quarterback clean.

Weaknesses

With back to back seasons ending in traumatic knee injuries, durability is a major red flag. There are also the questions of how his medicals will check out, and how much he will be able to contribute his rookie season. Even before his injuries, struggled to get into a second or third gear in order to break off longer gains.

NFL Comparison

Arian Foster

Bottom Line

Lattimore offers an extremely intriguing blend of power, balance, vision and production. However, it's hard not to question his future durability and how much of the same player he will be going forward after major injuries to both knees in consecutive seasons. While his talent suggests a late first-round pick, it's much more likely that he is a Day 3 pick.

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Grade

Title

Draft (Round)

Description

96-100

Future Hall of Famer

Top Pick

A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played

85-95

Immediate Starter

1st

An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).

70-84

Eventual Starter

2nd-3rd

A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.

50-69

Draftable Player

4th-7th

A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.

20-49

Free Agent

UDFA

A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.